A model design proposal of a supportive web site for women experiencing IPV: Catering for needs at different phases of the coping process

Abstract

Purpose

This paper attempts to recognize the informational needs of women who suffer from intimate partner violence (IPV). It then presents a model of a web site that may answer to these needs.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the paper defines the phases women suffering from IPV go through. This is done by surveying the literature that describes the stages these women experience. In order to clarify the proposed model, the paper then describe our own set of phases based on the above literature. Once the phases mentioned above are understood, the needs of these women become evident, thus allowing us to define and specify them. The model of the web site is then described and the paper shows how it relates to the various aforementioned needs.

Findings

The web site would offer a variety of information, such as: names of organizations that offer support, chats, and forums that provide emotional support and advice from women who experienced abuse in the past as well as from professionals.

Research limitations/implications

Security issues of this model need to be researched before applying it to use, as they are beyond the scope of this paper. Such issues should include techniques for erasing the user's traces and for keeping out “unwelcome visitors.”

Originality/value

This model, if applied, may greatly aid women suffering from IPV, as it would provide them with the emotional support and technical information they need in order to make important decisions regarding their situation. Information, if utilized, may give these women the ability to control their fate and actively improve their quality of life.

Citation

Bouhnik, D. (2007), "A model design proposal of a supportive web site for women experiencing IPV: Catering for needs at different phases of the coping process", Journal of Information, Communication and Ethics in Society, Vol. 5 No. 2/3, pp. 116-139. https://doi.org/10.1108/14779960710837605